Benefits of 'Forest Bathing' come to Janes Island State Park July 31

CRISFIELD — The health benefits of hiking in the woods are magnified when you slow down, engage your senses and connect with the natural world with an open heart.

The practice of shinrin-yoku or “forest bathing” started in Japan in the 1980s and it’s coming to Janes Island State Park with the first forest therapy walk 9-11 a.m. Wednesday, July 31.

Janes Wandless, a certified nature and forest therapy guide through the Association of Nature and Forest Therapy will be the guide for the two-hour walk which unlike a hike is slow, covers a short distance and includes stops along the way for sensory invitations to promote healing interactions with the natural world.

It’s not a hike, it’s not exercise, it’s not about a naturalist’s knowledge, she said, instead it’s “heart centered” as participants are reminded “we’re not separate from nature.”

During an introduction about this practice on Tuesday at Crisfield Library, she said trees, particularly evergreens like the park’s many loblolly pines, release phytoncides which are volatile organic compounds that have many medicinal properties — a natural aroma therapy.

During these walks stress is reduced, blood pressure lowered and they can provide cognitive restoration and relieve anxiety. Participants can be more creative afterward and leave in a state of calm.

Pre-registration for the walk is online at https://www.forestbathingfinder.com/product/janes-island-state-park-two-hour-guided-forest-therapy-walk/ where the $25 fee can be paid.

The walk will be held entirely outdoors and is rain or shine unless conditions are unsafe. Dress for the weather and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Meet at the picnic table behind the park store and nature center next to the observation tower.

There will be a tea ceremony and light snacks for the group.

Future walks from two to three hours will be scheduled, contact Mrs. Wandless at JEMnatureandforestherapy@gmail.com or follow her on Instagram @jemnaturewalks.